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SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 31
INTRODUCED BY C. BOLAND
A JOINT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MONTANA REQUESTING AN INTERIM STUDY OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN MONTANA; AND REQUIRING THAT THE FINAL RESULTS OF THE STUDY BE REPORTED TO THE 67TH LEGISLATURE.
WHEREAS, access to homes that are affordable for both renters and homeowners is essential to Montana's social and economic welfare; and
WHEREAS, the increased availability of homes that are affordable may increase opportunity for economic development by helping to attract and retain a skilled workforce; and
WHEREAS, families who pay more than 30% of their income for housing or more than 45% of their income for both housing and transportation costs are considered to be cost-burdened and potentially stressed to also afford necessities like food, clothing, and medical care; and
WHEREAS, in 2017, according to the United States Census Bureau, 22% of Montana homeowners are cost-burdened and 45.4% of Montana renters are cost-burdened.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:
That the Legislative Council be requested to designate an appropriate interim committee, pursuant to section 5-5-217, MCA, or direct sufficient staff resources to examine the variety of causes of, impacts resulting from, and potential solutions for addressing the lack of homes that are affordable in Montana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study include identifying, summarizing, and ranking the importance of:
(1) the current availability of homes, including the need for and lack of homes affordable to Montanans in all income brackets;
(2) the known and potential solutions to providing the necessary types and numbers of homes that are affordable; and
(3) recommendations for short-term and long-term policy and statutory changes at the local and state levels that may help provide the necessary types of homes that are affordable while protecting public health, safety, and welfare and minimizing adverse impacts to the natural environment of Montana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study participation be extended to local governments, state agencies, organizations representing real estate licensees, builders, land use planners, environmental interests, property owners, affordable housing advocates, and developers, along with any other interested stakeholders.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study include an evaluation of a variety of existing research and information, with specific attention given to the applicability and relevance of that research and information to the particular conditions in Montana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study is assigned to staff, any findings or conclusions be presented to and reviewed by an appropriate committee designated by the Legislative Council.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all aspects of the study, including presentation and review requirements, be concluded prior to September 15, 2020.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the final results of the study, including any findings, conclusions, comments, or recommendations of the appropriate committee, be reported to the 67th Legislature.
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Latest Version of SJ 31 (SJ0031.01)
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